What Does Wellbeing Mean for Spa Therapists? Perspectives From Macao's Hotel Industry

Bibliographic Data

ID21653680
AuthorsSandeep Basnyat (0000-0002-2609-8814, Macao University of Tourism Macao China, corresponding author), Sao Iong Wu (0000-0001-8723-4552, Macao University of Tourism Macao China), Suqin Wu (0000-0002-0994-402X), Cora Sao Wa Chan (City University of Hong Kong Hong Kong China)
Year2025
Volume27
Issue3
Publication date2025-05-01
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueInternational Journal of Tourism Research (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1099-2340 • E-ISSN: 1522-1970
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1002/jtr.70036
OpenAlexW4410186022
LanguageEN
Citations received1
References cited48

While there has been considerable research on how wellness contributes to customer well‐being, there remains a significant gap in understanding the well‐being of employees in this industry. This study seeks to address this gap by exploring how spa employees perceive their own well‐being. Data were gathered through interviews with 15 spa therapists employed at 4‐star and 5‐star hotels in Macao, China. Using Lewin's field theory as a framework for thematic analysis, the study uncovered a complex and dynamic understanding of well‐being among spa therapists, influenced by a combination of personal, professional, and contextual elements. The results indicate that supportive workplace relationships, job satisfaction, and a sense of financial stability are crucial to their well‐being, promoting physical, mental, and emotional health. These insights provide valuable implications for spa operators aiming to cultivate environments that enhance employee well‐being

Business · Geography · Hospitality industry · Sociology · Tourism · Adventure Sports and Sensation Seeking · Hospitality and Tourism Education · Psychology · Recreation, Leisure, Wilderness Management · Marketing

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Open DOIOpen Access